The analysis of the BMW Region set out in this chapter indicates significant development challenges for the region. The BMW region’s economy has undergone significant changes in recent years and this process continues today. This has taken place against a backdrop of falling unemployment and higher economic activity.
This Operational Programme recognises the challenges the region faces but also highlights the many opportunities that can be exploited with the correct policy response and commitment. Within the limited resources available for this Operational Programme, interventions are developed which seek to address these priority issues while remaining consistent with the objectives of the Community Strategic Guidelines and the ERDF regulations.
As we present subsequently, the investment priorities proposed address each of the three areas discussed above, namely:
Innovation, ICT and the Knowledge Economy
Environment and Risk Prevention
Urban Development and Secondary Transport Networks
These are identified as key regional needs that can be addressed by this Operational Programme and for which Community Added Value can be gained. The rationale for choosing these areas and consequent Development Strategy is outlined in more detail in the next chapter.
